From lively surf breaks to hidden jungle coves, explore the beaches of Sayulita that make this boho town unforgettable.
Sayulita is a vibrant surf town on Mexico’s Riviera Nayarit, that has long been a favorite for travelers chasing a mix of barefoot luxury and coastal charm.
With its great restaurants, lovely boutique hotels, and plenty of things to do—from yoga at sunrise to taco-fueled nights in the plaza—it’s a place that captures the perfect balance between laid-back and lively.
But beyond the colorful streets and boho buzz lies its real draw: the beaches of Sayulita. From beginner surf breaks right in town to hidden coves tucked between jungle cliffs, each beach has its own distinct rhythm.
After spending months living here and exploring every curve of this coastline, I’ve rounded up the best beaches in Sayulita—whether you’re after sunset picnics, solitude, or the perfect wave.
The 9 Must-Visit Beaches of Sayulita
1. Sayulita Beach
Sayulita Beach is the town’s main beach and essentially it’s heartbeat—a wide, golden stretch that hums with energy from sunrise surf lessons to sunset margaritas.
Just steps from Sayulita’s cobblestoned streets, this main beach is where Sayulita’s bohemian spirit meets the Pacific. The waves here are gentle enough for beginners to find their rhythm, with local surf schools lining the shore ready to get you on your feet.
When the salt and sun start calling for a break, the beach transforms into an effortless spot for a lazy seafood lunch—grilled snapper and cold cervezas under a palapa—or, a little later, a front-row seat to Sayulita’s legendary sunsets, cocktail in hand.
It’s not the quietest beach in town and probably not the best option for a relaxed beach day, but it’s undoubtedly the one that captures its soul.
2. Playa de los Muertos
Playa de Los Muertos, named after the small cemetery you pass on the way, feels worlds away from the lively buzz of Sayulita’s main beach—despite being just a short walk south.
Tucked into a sheltered cove, it’s the perfect spot for a low-key beach day: calm turquoise waters, a scattering of fishing boats, and a couple of unfussy beachside stands serving up cold beers, fresh coconuts, and simple snacks.
Here, you can also rent umbrellas and loungers for the day.
Locals love it for swimming and sunbathing without the surfboards or crowds, while the rocky outcrops at either end give it a bit of castaway charm. It’s Sayulita in slow motion— the perfect spot for a swim, read, and a day in the sun.
3. Playa Carricitos
Playa Carricitos is Sayulita’s wild beauty—a beach that rewards a little effort with pure magic. About a 20-minute walk (or quick scooter ride) from town, follow Niños Heroes street and then a winding dirt road through the jungle until the trees part to reveal a vast, untouched crescent of sand framed by rugged cliffs.
There are no beach bars or loungers here, just the crash of the Pacific and the incredible types of sunsets made for the books. It’s the ultimate spot for a sunset picnic: grab a towel, some snacks, a few cold beers, and settle in as the sky turns from gold to deep magenta.
Carricitos is the Sayulita locals’ secret—a reminder that the best views often take a little wander to find.
4. Playa Patzcuarito
Playa Patzcuarito, just south of Carricitos, takes Sayulita’s off-the-beaten-path charm one step further. This long, golden beach feels deliciously remote—an untouched stretch of coastline where jungle meets sea and sunsets feel almost private.
It does take a bit more effort to reach (expect a longer walk or hop on an ATV or scooter to save time), but the journey is part of the adventure. Follow the road of the same name off the main Punta Mita highway, and you’ll eventually arrive at a windswept paradise with hardly another soul in sight.
There are no services here—no bars, no umbrellas—just you, the Pacific, and an open horizon that seems to swallow the sun whole.
5. Playa Malpaso
Playa Malpaso is a secluded beach north of Sayulita, accessible via a short jungle hike or the road toward San Pancho. To get there, walk north through town along Avenida del Palmar, past local vendors and cafes, until you hit a dirt trail at the end of the road—then follow it through the trees for about 15–20 minutes. It’s best to download AllTrails to stay on track.
The beach is wide, quiet, but not so great for swimming as it can get rough at times, and the currents are strong. There are no facilities here—no restaurants, bars, or shade—so it’s best to bring everything you’ll need for the day. It’s a good option if you’re looking to escape the crowds and spend a few peaceful hours surrounded by nature.
6. Playa Las Cuevas
Playa Las Cuevas, meaning “The Caves,” is one of Sayulita’s most hidden and visually striking beaches. It connects to Playa Malpaso at low tide via a rocky passage, but it’s far quieter and feels even more remote.
The beach is tucked between dramatic rock formations and scattered boulders, giving it a rugged, untouched feel.
Swimming isn’t recommended due to the strong shore break, but it’s a great spot for photography, exploration, or simply taking in the wild coastal scenery.
To get there, follow the same route as Playa Malpaso—north on Avenida del Palmar—then continue along the beach until you reach a staircase leading up over the rocks.
The trail can be narrow with some drop-offs, so wear good shoes and watch your footing. For the best light (and fewer people), visit in the late afternoon, but be mindful of the tides before attempting to reach the cave.
7. San Pancho Beach
While technically not in Sayulita, San Pancho Beach is close enough to count—and well worth the short drive or taxi ride north. Located in the neighboring village of San Francisco (locally known as San Pancho), this wide, golden beach offers a more laid-back, less commercial vibe than Sayulita’s main stretch.
The waves here can be strong, but it’s perfect for long walks, surfing, watching local surfers, or grabbing a seat at one of the casual beach bars for a sunset drink. It’s a favorite spot among locals, nomads, and expats alike, and the easygoing atmosphere makes it an excellent day trip for anyone wanting to experience a slower slice of Riviera Nayarit life.
8. Playa Careyeros
Playa Careyeros, located just before you arrive at Punta Mita, is one of the region’s most beautiful and underrated beaches. Wide, clean, and framed by soft dunes, it’s the kind of place that feels luxurious in its simplicity.
The calm turquoise water makes it ideal for swimming or paddleboarding, and it’s rarely crowded—mostly visited by locals or in-the-know travelers. There are a few great beach clubs and restaurants here, making this beach an ideal spot for the whole day.
Some of my favorite options here are Kupuri Punta Mita beach club, which is also home to Hector’s Kitchen. There’s also El Barracuda in Punta de Mita, one of the best restaurants in the area for seafood.
It’s about a 25-minute drive south of Sayulita, and access is via a small dirt road off Highway 200. Once you find it, you’ll see why many consider Careyeros one of Riviera Nayarit’s hidden gems—a tranquil, unspoiled stretch of sand that feels a world away from Sayulita’s scene.
9. Playa La Lancha
Past Punta Mita, you’ll find Playa La Lancha, one of the best surf spots among the beaches of Sayulita and its surrounding coast. Known for its clean, consistent breaks, this beach attracts surfers looking for more challenging, intermediate-to-advanced waves than those found in Sayulita’s main bay.
Many local surf schools run day trips here to take advantage of the conditions. The beach itself is stunning—broad, golden, and backed by dense jungle—and you’ll reach it via a short trail from the highway.
There are no facilities, so come prepared with water, snacks, and shade. Whether you’re paddling out or just watching the action, Playa La Lancha captures the untamed surf spirit that defines the beaches of Sayulita.
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